South Karelia Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for South Karelia, including a list of places to visit, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to South Karelia

South Karelia is a picturesque region located in Southern Finland, in the Nordic countries of Europe. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and vibrant food and drink scene. The region is home to several lakes, forests, and rivers, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s explore the must-visit places, things to do, food and drink scene, and much more in South Karelia.

List of Places to Visit in South Karelia

Here’s a list of the must-visit places when in South Karelia.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Lappeenranta Fortress: The 18th-century fortress is a significant cultural and historical attraction. It is now a museum and hosts several exhibitions throughout the year.
  2. South Karelian Museum: This museum showcases the cultural and natural history of the region, with exhibits ranging from traditional Finnish costumes to various archaeological findings.
  3. Karelian Folk Museum: The museum displays traditional Karelian costumes and handicrafts, reflecting the culture and lifestyle of the Karelian people who once inhabited the region.

Natural Attractions of South Karelia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Saimaa: The largest lake in Finland and the fourth largest in Europe, Lake Saimaa is a massive freshwater lake spanning over 4,400 square kilometers. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
  2. Imatrankoski Rapids: The rapids are located on the Vuoksi River and are a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
  3. Linnansaari National Park: The park is situated on an island in Lake Saimaa and is home to several rare and endangered species. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, rent a canoe, or enjoy a picnic by the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Karelia

South Karelia offers several scenic hiking and biking trails that are perfect for exploring the region’s natural beauty. Some of the must-try trails include:

  1. Salpalinja Trail: The trail runs along the Salpa Line, a series of fortifications built during World War II. The trail is perfect for hiking and biking.
  2. Lauritsalan luontopolku: This trail is located in Lappeenranta and is a popular destination for families. The trail is 4.5 kilometers long and is perfect for a relaxing stroll.
  3. Repovesi National Park: Although not technically in South Karelia, this national park is located nearby and offers several hiking and biking trails. The park is known for its stunning views and natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in South Karelia: Activities and Tours

  1. Boat Tour of Lake Saimaa: A boat tour of Lake Saimaa is a must-do activity when in South Karelia. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake’s islands and shoreline as they cruise along the water.
  2. Visit To The Sandcastle: This unique attraction in Lappeenranta features intricate sand sculptures created by professional artists from around the world. Visitors can explore the sandcastle and enjoy various interactive exhibits.
  3. Visit To The Border: Located in Parikkala, the border between Finland and Russia offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to several artisan shops and restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Karelia

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long trip to South Karelia:

Day 1: Lappeenranta Fortress and South Karelian Museum. Day 2: Lake Saimaa boat tour and visit to Sandcastle. Day 3: Imatrankoski Rapids and Linnansaari National Park. Day 4: Salpalinja Trail hike/bike and visit to the Karelian Folk Museum. Day 5: Visit to the border and lunch at artisan shops. Day 6: Lauritsalan luontopolku hike and visit to Repovesi National Park. Day 7: Relaxing day at Lake Saimaa, enjoy fishing, swimming, and local food favorites.

Food and Drink Scene of South Karelia

South Karelia is known for its traditional Finnish cuisine, with several dishes unique to the region. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Karjalanpaisti: A traditional Finnish beef stew with root vegetables and spices.
  2. Lohikeitto: A creamy salmon and potato soup.
  3. Kalakukko: A fish-filled rye bread pie, traditionally baked in an open fire.

Local Beverages

  1. Sima: A traditional Finnish fermented lemonade.
  2. Lonkero: A Finnish alcoholic beverage made with grapefruit soda and gin.

Where to Stay in South Karelia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Karelia offers several accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels and guesthouses. Here are some top-rated options:

  1. Lappeenranta Spa: This hotel is located in the center of Lappeenranta and features a spa, restaurant, and panoramic views of Lake Saimaa.
  2. Guesthouse Uusikuu: This charming guesthouse is located in Imatra and offers comfortable rooms with access to a sauna and outdoor hot tub.
  3. Summer Hotel Karelia-Park: This hostel-style hotel is located in the center of Lappeenranta and offers basic, affordable accommodation.

What to Buy in South Karelia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

South Karelia is known for its traditional handicrafts and unique food products. Here are some must-buy souvenirs:

  1. Karjalanpiirakka: A traditional Finnish pastry filled with rice pudding or potato.
  2. Knitted Socks: Handmade knitted socks in traditional Finnish patterns.
  3. Birch Wood Products: Handcrafted birch wood products, including bowls, spoons, and other kitchenware.

Local Culture and Customs of South Karelia

The Karelian culture is an essential part of the South Karelia region. Visitors can explore traditional Karelian customs and folklore, including language, music, and poetry. The region is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the Karelian culture.

Best Time to Visit South Karelia

The best time to visit South Karelia is during the summer months from June to August. The weather is comfortable, and several outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports, are available. However, the region’s natural beauty can be enjoyed all year, with skiing and winter sports available during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Karelia

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting South Karelia:

Do:

  1. Embrace the Nordic culture, traditions, and customs.
  2. Carry cash as some smaller establishments only accept cash payments.
  3. Respect the environment and be mindful of the wildlife.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or harm the environment in any way.
  2. Disturb the wildlife or their natural habitats.
  3. Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

South Karelia is generally a safe destination. Visitors should be mindful of the weather conditions and stay safe when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities. Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in South Karelia.

Safety in South Karelia

Be mindful of the weather conditions when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking or biking. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and always let someone know of your whereabouts and approximate return time.

Health in South Karelia

South Karelia has excellent healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and clinics available throughout the region. Health insurance is recommended for visitors, and it’s essential to carry any necessary medications and medical documents with you.

Getting to South Karelia: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Karelia is located in Southern Finland and is easily accessible by various transportation options. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near South Karelia

The nearest airport to South Karelia is Lappeenranta International Airport, which is serviced by several domestic and international airlines. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the largest airport in Finland, and several buses and trains connect it to South Karelia.

Bus Stations Near South Karelia

South Karelia is well-connected to the rest of Finland via bus. Major bus companies, including Matkahuolto and Onnibus, operate bus services throughout the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach South Karelia by train or car. The region is connected by several highways and is accessible by train from Helsinki and other major cities in Finland.

How to Get Around in South Karelia

South Karelia is a relatively small region and can be easily explored using public transportation or by car. Bus services run regularly throughout the region, and several car rental companies are available in major cities, including Lappeenranta and Imatra.

Where to Go Next from South Karelia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Several nearby destinations are accessible from South Karelia, making it an excellent base for exploring Finland further. Here are some must-visit locations:

  1. Helsinki: The capital of Finland is located a few hours away from South Karelia by car or train. Visitors can explore the city’s rich culture, history, and architecture.
  2. St. Petersburg: For those looking to explore Russia, St. Petersburg is a short train journey away from Lappeenranta.
  3. Tampere: This vibrant city is known for its culture, food, and history and is located a few hours away from South Karelia by car or train.

Conclusion

South Karelia is a beautiful region that offers something for everyone. With stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and a vibrant food and drink scene, visitors can enjoy a unique Nordic experience. Explore the region’s museums, natural attractions, and outdoor activities, and don’t forget to try the local cuisine and bring back some traditional Finnish souvenirs.

Imatra Rapids in the Vuoksi River Imatra Rapids in the Vuoksi River


    Joutseno
    Lappeenranta
    Suomenniemi